Celebrating Growth: Embracing Small Beginnings in Faith
Summary
### Summary
Today, we celebrate our church's 42nd birthday, reflecting on our journey and the incredible impact of our collective efforts. Our mission is to love people as God loves us, and we achieve this through our four "lovelings": the next generation, local partners, national church planting, and global missions. Our church is expanding, with new facilities to accommodate more students and community activities. This growth is a testament to the power of small beginnings and the importance of perseverance.
We looked at the story of Zerubbabel from Zechariah 4:6-10, where God encourages him not to despise small beginnings. This message is relevant to us today as we often face obstacles that can discourage us. However, God is cheering us on, and our small efforts are significant in His eyes. We are reminded that success often comes from simply showing up and being faithful in the little things.
Our church's history is filled with moments of faith and perseverance. From our humble beginnings with just 25 people to our current 45-acre campus, we've seen God's hand at work. The story of how we acquired and later sold a piece of property for a significant profit is a powerful example of how God can turn obstacles into opportunities.
As we move forward, we are committed to continuing our mission. We believe that our property and facilities will serve as a witness to God's love for generations to come. We encourage everyone to plant themselves in the church community, as long-term commitment leads to flourishing lives. Our prayer is that each person here will feel encouraged, supported, and ready to take the next steps in their faith journey.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Small Beginnings: God delights in small beginnings and the early stages of our efforts. Just as Zerubbabel was encouraged not to despise small beginnings, we too should recognize the significance of our initial steps. These small acts of faith and obedience are crucial and celebrated by God. [37:29]
2. Perseverance Through Obstacles: Whenever we endeavor to do something worthwhile, we will face obstacles. These challenges can discourage us, but they are also opportunities for growth and reliance on God. The story of our church's property acquisition and eventual sale demonstrates how perseverance and faith can turn obstacles into blessings. [39:32]
3. Faithfulness in the Little Things: Success often comes from simply showing up and being faithful in the little things. Whether it's going to work, teaching a class, or participating in church activities, our consistent efforts are valuable. This faithfulness, even in mundane tasks, is a form of worship and obedience to God. [49:16]
4. Long-Term Commitment to Community: Planting ourselves in a church community leads to flourishing lives. Long-term commitment allows us to grow spiritually, build meaningful relationships, and make a lasting impact. It's not about finding a perfect church but about being part of a community that seeks to follow God together. [52:46]
5. God's Encouragement and Support: God is always cheering us on, even when progress seems slow or insignificant. His encouragement helps us to keep going, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. This divine support is a source of strength and motivation, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey. [40:59]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[26:38] - Impact of Giving
[27:24] - Expanding Our Facilities
[28:05] - National and Global Partnerships
[29:10] - Ways to Give
[29:42] - Celebrating Our 42nd Birthday
[30:18] - Introduction to the Message
[30:55] - Governor's Remarks
[31:38] - Fire Alarm Incident
[32:38] - Prophetic Text Message
[34:23] - Two Prayers for Our Church
[36:27] - Story of Zerubbabel
[37:29] - Do Not Despise Small Beginnings
[39:32] - Overcoming Obstacles
[40:59] - Encouragement from Our Church's History
[49:16] - Faithfulness in Small Things
[52:46] - Planting Yourself in Community
[54:24] - Closing Prayer and Blessing
[01:06:05] - At The Movies Series
[01:19:40] - Recognizing Contributors
[01:22:17] - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Zechariah 4:6-10 (NIV): "So he said to me, 'This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: "Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit," says the Lord Almighty. "What are you, mighty mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become level ground. Then he will bring out the capstone to shouts of ‘God bless it! God bless it!’” Then the word of the Lord came to me: "The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it. Then you will know that the Lord Almighty has sent me to you. Who dares despise the day of small things, since the seven eyes of the Lord that range throughout the earth will rejoice when they see the chosen capstone in the hand of Zerubbabel?"'"
### Observation Questions
1. What does God say to Zerubbabel about the source of his success in Zechariah 4:6? How does this relate to the sermon’s message about relying on God’s Spirit rather than our own strength? [36:53]
2. According to Zechariah 4:10, how does God view small beginnings? How was this concept illustrated in the story of the church’s early days? [37:29]
3. What were some of the obstacles faced by Zerubbabel in rebuilding the temple, and how did God encourage him through the prophet Zechariah? [36:27]
4. How did the church’s acquisition and eventual sale of the property demonstrate perseverance and faith in overcoming obstacles? [48:25]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why might God delight in small beginnings, as mentioned in Zechariah 4:10? How does this perspective challenge our usual views on success and progress? [37:29]
2. How can the story of Zerubbabel and the rebuilding of the temple serve as a metaphor for personal or communal challenges we face today? [36:27]
3. In what ways does the church’s history of perseverance and faithfulness reflect the principles found in Zechariah 4:6-10? [48:25]
4. How does the concept of long-term commitment to a community, as discussed in the sermon, align with the biblical principle of planting oneself in good soil? [52:46]
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a significant obstacle. How did you see God’s hand at work in turning that obstacle into an opportunity? How can this experience encourage you in your current challenges? [48:25]
2. What small beginnings in your life or faith journey might you be tempted to despise? How can you shift your perspective to see these as significant in God’s eyes? [37:29]
3. How can you practice faithfulness in the little things this week, whether at work, home, or church? What specific actions can you take to show up and be consistent? [49:16]
4. Think about your commitment to the church community. What steps can you take to plant yourself more deeply and contribute to the flourishing of the community? [52:46]
5. How can you encourage someone else who might be feeling discouraged by slow progress or small beginnings? Share a story or scripture that has encouraged you. [40:59]
6. Identify one area in your life where you need to rely more on God’s Spirit rather than your own strength. What practical steps can you take to surrender this area to God? [36:53]
7. How can you be a source of encouragement and support to others in your small group or church community? What specific actions can you take this week to cheer someone on? [40:59]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Small Beginnings
Description: Small beginnings are often overlooked, but they hold immense potential in God's eyes. Just as Zerubbabel was encouraged not to despise the day of small things, we too should recognize the significance of our initial steps. These small acts of faith and obedience are crucial and celebrated by God. Our church's journey from 25 people to a 45-acre campus is a testament to the power of small beginnings and the importance of perseverance. Each small effort we make is significant in God's grand plan. [37:29]
Zechariah 4:10 (ESV): "For whoever has despised the day of small things shall rejoice, and shall see the plumb line in the hand of Zerubbabel. These seven are the eyes of the Lord, which range through the whole earth."
Reflection: Think of a small step you can take today in your faith journey. How can you trust God to use this small beginning for His greater purpose?
Day 2: Overcoming Obstacles with Perseverance
Description: Whenever we endeavor to do something worthwhile, we will face obstacles. These challenges can discourage us, but they are also opportunities for growth and reliance on God. The story of our church's property acquisition and eventual sale demonstrates how perseverance and faith can turn obstacles into blessings. By trusting in God's timing and provision, we can see how He transforms our challenges into opportunities for His glory. [39:32]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Identify a current obstacle in your life. How can you shift your perspective to see it as an opportunity for growth and reliance on God?
Day 3: Faithfulness in the Little Things
Description: Success often comes from simply showing up and being faithful in the little things. Whether it's going to work, teaching a class, or participating in church activities, our consistent efforts are valuable. This faithfulness, even in mundane tasks, is a form of worship and obedience to God. By being diligent in the small things, we honor God and contribute to His kingdom in meaningful ways. [49:16]
Luke 16:10 (ESV): "One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much."
Reflection: Reflect on a small, everyday task you often overlook. How can you approach it with a renewed sense of faithfulness and purpose?
Day 4: The Importance of Long-Term Commitment to Community
Description: Planting ourselves in a church community leads to flourishing lives. Long-term commitment allows us to grow spiritually, build meaningful relationships, and make a lasting impact. It's not about finding a perfect church but about being part of a community that seeks to follow God together. Our church's history of faith and perseverance is a testament to the power of long-term commitment. [52:46]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: How can you deepen your commitment to your church community? What steps can you take to build stronger relationships and contribute to the community's growth?
Day 5: Receiving God's Encouragement and Support
Description: God is always cheering us on, even when progress seems slow or insignificant. His encouragement helps us to keep going, knowing that our efforts are not in vain. This divine support is a source of strength and motivation, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey. Our church's history is filled with moments of God's encouragement and support, turning obstacles into opportunities. [40:59]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: In what area of your life do you need God's encouragement today? How can you seek His support and trust in His presence to guide you through?
Quotes
1. "You know, loveling number two is all our local partners. That includes the Loudon Abused Women's Shelter, Loudon Hunger Relief, The Down Syndrome Association. I could go on and on. But we're in vital connection with our local community. And it's our dream to help them fulfill their dream." [28:05] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Do not despise these small beginnings. For the Lord loves it when he sees a job just getting started. The Lord, all heaven rejoices. Do not get discouraged because there seems to be so little progress. For the Lord gets excited and cheers on those early stages." [37:29] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We encounter obstacles whenever we endeavor to do something worthwhile. And if we're not careful, the challenges, the persistent obstacles and resistance that we face can end up taking the courage out of our hearts, discouraging us and hindering us from accomplishing the very thing that God wants us to accomplish." [39:32] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "If that season lasts too long, it may be an indicator that you have stopped doing something of significance in your life. And I pray on our 42nd birthday that the Spirit of God would awaken something in your heart that say I'm called to achieve for God." [40:01] (16 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Don't get discouraged because there seems to be so little progress. Why? Because the Lord, the Lord, the Lord is cheering you on. You know, I pray that our 42nd birthday story would be an encouragement to you." [40:34] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Sometimes success is just showing up. Are you here? I'm going to put on my suit and go to work and show up and just do my job. The next day, I'm putting on my whistle. So I'm going to go to work. I'm going to do, I'm going to go to the class and teach. I'm going to take a shower, actually put on a pair of pants and join that zoom call. I'm just not going to give up." [49:16] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Would you just plant yourself? Plant yourself into some good soil. Into the family of God. Long term. And watch how God begins to bless and flourish our lives. Well, Pastor Charlie, I'm looking for the perfect church. If you find it, don't join it. You're going to mess it up. There are no perfect churches. Why? Because we're people. We're people. But we're people who come together to follow the Lord and make a difference in the world." [52:46] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "We see our students launch from this place, their arrows hitting the mark for which they were created. We see our students that were taught and shaped in this place sitting in places of influence all over the world for generations to come. Our best days are not behind us, they're ahead of us in Jesus' name." [01:21:33] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "Lord, thank you for the gift of your Son. Lord, thank you for the gift of life, strength, hope, new beginnings. And now, Lord, we specifically dedicate this building to you. Lord, may every student who crosses the threshold of this building, Lord, first and foremost, may they find you. Lord, may they find your purpose. Lord, may they be filled, God, with your Spirit. Lord, may they be filled with confidence in themselves and in you, and go out and make a mark, Lord, for you." [01:23:05] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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